Cosmetologist in New Jersey
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NJ
How to Become a Cosmetologist in New Jersey
To become a licensed Cosmetologist-Hairstylist in New Jersey, individuals must complete 1,200 hours of instruction at a Board-approved cosmetology school and be at least 17 years of age with a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must pass the New Jersey Cosmetologist-Hairstylist Theory and Practical Exams. The application fee is $50, and the exam fees total $92. Licenses are renewed every two years, and continuing education is not required. New Jersey offers licensure by endorsement for those with equivalent training and a current license from another state, though additional requirements and exams may apply.
Cosmetologist Requirements in New Jersey
| Detail | New Jersey |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1200-hour training program and High school diploma or GED |
| Exam | New Jersey Cosmetologist-Hairstylist Theory and Practical Exams ($92) |
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age of 17. Must have a high school diploma or GED. Background check may be required for reciprocity applicants. A student permit can be obtained after completing half of the required training hours. |
Source: New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling
Cosmetologist Salary in New Jersey
The median cosmetologist salary in New Jersey is $44,110 per year, which is 25.1% above the national median of $35,250.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $31,470 |
| 25th | $33,880 |
| 50th (median) | $44,110 |
| 75th | $59,900 |
| 90th (experienced) | $101,300 |
New Jersey employs approximately 15,140 cosmetologists.
Cosmetologist Job Outlook
AI Impact on Cosmetologists
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.68/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Cosmetologist in New Jersey Worth It?
Factors to consider: New Jersey's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.